Condemnation as voters call for snap by-election

A SNAP council by-election has been called in Salford after the death of a long-serving councillor, sparking claims of 'petty-minded politicking'.

- By DECLAN CAREY

Salford Mayor Paul Dennett

Voters will go to the polls in the Barton and Winton ward on Wednesday April 22 for a seat which was held by Labour councillor David Lancaster until he passed away in February.

The ward boundary covers an area west of Eccles town centre from Barton upon Irwell and up to Winton. The seat was due to be contested at the local elections in May, but the vote was brought forward under electoral law after two registered voters called for an earlier by-election. It is thought the early election will cost the public purse around £20,000 in extra costs. Political leaders at Salford council have issued a statement condemning the move. The joint statement was signed by Salford mayor Paul Dennett, Conservative group leader Bob Clarke, and Unwhipped group leader Andrew Walters.